Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a decadent and indulgent dish that transforms buttery croissants into a rich, custardy breakfast casserole. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for brunch or a special occasion, combining the flavors of chocolate and vanilla in every bite!

Ingredients

• 6 large croissants (preferably day-old, cut into chunks)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
• Fresh berries (for serving, optional)

Timing

Making Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 30-40 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Croissants

1. Cut Croissants: Tear or cut the croissants into bite-sized pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture

1. Whisk Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
2. Pour Over Croissants: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissant pieces, pressing down gently to ensure all pieces are soaked.

Step 4: Add Chocolate

1. Sprinkle Chocolate Chips: Evenly sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the top of the croissant mixture, ensuring they are distributed throughout.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish: Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm with fresh berries on the side.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake (per serving, based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	8g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	15g

Tips for Customization

• Different Chocolates: Try using dark chocolate or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or hazelnuts for added crunch.
• Fruit Additions: Add sliced bananas or berries to the mixture for extra sweetness and flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Conclusion

Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake is a delightful and indulgent breakfast option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. With its rich custard and gooey chocolate, it’s sure to become a favorite for family gatherings and special occasions!